Some people use myo-inositol to help treat depression, anxiety, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). It has also been studied as a treatment for diabetes, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), and high cholesterol. Keep reading to learn all about these and this supplement's other uses.
What is Myo-Intositol?
Myo-inositol is a type of sugar that occurs naturally in the body. It's sometimes referred to as a "Vitamin B8" because it was once thought to be part of the vitamin B complex. Furthermore, it's found in many healthy foods, including fruits, beans, and grains.
Equally important to know is that it is sometimes used in conjunction with other supplements, such as folic acid or Co-enzyme Q10 (CoQ10). For anyone interested in taking myo-inositol, it's important to speak with a healthcare provider before you take it, to ensure it's the right supplement for you.
Anecdotal Use Cases for Myo-Intositol
Potential Anxiety Reduction Affecting Serotonin
Many people claim to use myo-inositol to help treat anxiety. This is because myo-inositol affects serotonin, a neurotransmitter that plays a role in mood and anxiety. Low levels of serotonin have been linked to conditions like depression and anxiety.
Myo-inositol has also been studied as a treatment for OCD. One study showed that myo-inositol may be as effective as the OCD medication fluvoxamine (Luvox). However, more research is needed.
Another study looked at the effects of myo-inositol in people with panic disorder. The study found that myo-inositol may help reduce panic attacks and improve symptoms of anxiety.
Might Help Control Blood Sugar by Enhancing Insulin Sensitivity
For some, myo-intositol may assist in maintaining normal blood sugar levels.
This is because myo-inositol has insulin-sensitizing effects and may help control blood sugar in people with type 2 diabetes.
A small study looked at the effects of myo-inositol in women with PCOS. The study found that myo-inositol may help improve insulin sensitivity and reduce fasting blood sugar levels.
Might Increase Fertility in Women With PCOS
PCOS is a condition that can affect a woman's fertility. This is because PCOS may lead to changes in the levels of certain hormones, which can interfere with ovulation.
Myo-inositol has been shown to help improve hormone levels in women with PCOS and may increase fertility. However, more research is currently underway to definitively prove that myo-intositol can increase fertility in women with PCOS.
Might Ease Depression Symptoms
Depression is becoming increasingly common. In fact, it's now the leading cause of disability worldwide.
Myo-inositol has been studied as a treatment for depression and may help ease symptoms. As mentioned above one study found that myo-inositol was as effective as fluvoxamine (Luvox) in treating depression and OCD.
Might Help Lower Triglyceride & Cholesterol Levels
Myo-inositol has also been shown to help lower triglyceride levels. Triglycerides are a type of fat that can increase your risk of heart disease. Lowering these levels may help reduce your risk of heart disease.
A small study looked at the effects of myo-inositol in people with high cholesterol. The study found that myo-inositol may help lower LDL (bad) cholesterol and raise HDL (good) cholesterol levels. However, more research is needed to confirm these findings.
Use Cases of Myo-Intositol
While myo-inositol is generally considered safe, it's always best to speak with a healthcare provider before taking any supplement. This is especially true if you're pregnant or breastfeeding as there is not conclusive research to say whether myo-inositol supplementation is 100% safe in these populations.
More research is needed to confirm the benefits outlined in this article. If you're considering taking myo-inositol, speak with your healthcare provider first to ensure it's the right supplement for you.